Before Halloween, we decided to tell about one of our major impressions from being in the US. Many readers know that we did not only travel there, but also lived and studied for two semesters in Columbus, Ohio. Then, in 2013, Columbus was hosting one of the largest Halloween High Balls in the country. They closed the whole street so that it could be used by pedestrians only, and there were crowds of participants (about 25000).

Halloween costumes.

Many costumes were topical: this is essential if you want your audience to like them. For instance, many readers may remember that in 2013 not only the government, but also many state organizations (including national parks and even the Statue of Liberty) had to close for several days. Certainly, this was in the Halloween costumes too.

Also they could not help laughing at the crazy security for Obama.

Alice in Wonderland with Johnny Depp was still popular that year.

Some costumes were beyond time.

The competition. The High Ball also included the competition for the best costumes. Again, the participants were very different.

The latter construction/costume was so big and clumsy that it fell down!

And this is Edward Scissorhands in case someone is not yet sure.

Some costumes were presented as a part of action.

Would you assume who won? There were so many different costumes for all tastes and occasions, but American classics won – the Star Wars costume!

For us this was really disappointing, not only because we are not the fans of Star Wars. Popular culture sometimes is so popular that it obscures something potentially more creative. Which is not only the US case, of course.
To make sure that you did not only get the inspiration for your Halloween costume, but also feel the atmosphere of the holiday, we end with two short videos. Enjoy!